CHINOOK, Mont. (NMB) – The P.A.W.S. (Pets Are Worth Saving) Animal Shelter in Chinook has announced that a free spay and neuter clinic for low income families will take place on May 8th and 9th at the Commercial Building at the Blaine County Fairgrounds.
P.A.W.S. Manager Alissa Hewitt says the plan is for a total of 50 cats and dogs to be spayed or neutered.
“The ability to spay and neuter 100 animals in a weekend is a very, very big deal. Unaltered dogs and cats are a major strain on the community. Not only because of the diseases that can spread, but because of the financial burden that that presents to the whole community. It really affects everybody.”
This clinic will also offer low cost vaccinations for pets from 9 AM-2 PM on both days.
Annual vaccinations and rabies vaccines are $10 each or $15 for both. Appointments are not necessary and vaccinations will be done on a drive through basis.
“We’re really excited about that because it’s an easy way to get your dog and dogs in the area healthy.”
Microchipping will also be offered at a cost of $20 per pet.
The clinic is being held with the help of SPAY Montana, and will allow for a large number of pets to be spayed or neutered in a short amount of time. Local restaurants are providing food for volunteers. Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to meet at the Commercial Building at the Fairgrounds on May 7th at 4:30 PM for additional details.
To schedule a spay or neuter, call 357-7172.
As for the shelter itself, Hewitt says they are currently at capacity, but their team of volunteers have been able to handle the large workload.
“It’s all because of our neighbors and friends here that support us everyday. We’re very grateful for that.”
